- According to local sources, the vessel was allegedly towed by Mozambique Navy personnel and has not been seen since
By MOZTIMES
Pemba (MOZTIMES) – A boat with more than 20 fishermen, which was about to dock at a fish-landing site locally known as Panchina, near Lucheti village in the south of the town of Mocímboa da Praia, was reportedly towed away by a vessel believed to belong to the Mozambique Navy and has been missing since the afternoon of Saturday (20 September).
Local sources told MOZTIMES that at around 15:00 on Saturday, in the presence of several residents of Lucheti, a Navy vessel arrived and towed the boat carrying the fishermen just as it was preparing to dock, taking it to an unknown destination.
“Lucheti is in the south of Mocímboa da Praia. Many people there live from fishing. Many even fish off Quiterajo because it’s nearby. As they were returning, a Navy vessel known locally as ‘Moçambique’ appeared and towed the boat,” a resident said, adding that the action was witnessed by many people.
Another source confirmed to MOZTIMES that both the vessel and the fishermen are local: “The boat belongs to a Lucheti resident, Mr Jano. There were many fishermen on board. It’s true, and it happened this Saturday,” the source added.
The same source said this type of conduct fuels resistance among some residents to the presence of Mozambican forces in Mocímboa da Praia, alleging that they frequently carry out violent actions in local communities.
The incident comes less than two weeks after another case involving the Navy on Rolas Island, in Ibo district, where at least 18 fishermen were allegedly massacred by Navy personnel. (MT)
